Pebble Beach Golf Links, Holes 17 & 18
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don’t lose focus, there aren’t any gimmies coming home
from here. This is the most difficult stretch at Spanish
Bay.
The par-5, 576-yard, 14th hole is long and unforgiving
and features out of bounds down the left from the tee.
Holes 15 and 17 are long par 4s that feature island-like
fairways, where the run-off into wasteland will prove
hazardous to your scorecard.
The 16th hole is the longest par-3 at 200 yards. Located
close to the shores at Spanish Bay, you’ll need to factor
the sea breeze into your club selection.
Then the round finishes as it started—with another risk
reward par-5 providing the final examination. You can
reach the green in two shots after crunching a strong
drive. But with plenty of gorse to clear, the approach will
need to be struck perfectly.
After completing the inaugural round at The Links at
Spanish Bay more than 25 years ago, eight-time major
winner and course co-designer Watson, who posted a
stunning 67, declared, ‘It’s so much like Scotland, you
can almost hear the bagpipes playing.’
Watson’s observation instigated the beloved ‘The Piper’
ceremony. Every evening at sunset, The Links at Spanish
Bay closes to the cherished sounds of bagpipes. It’s a
touching scene that pays respect the game’s origins.
Viewing the ritual from the communal fire pits located in
front of the Inn at Spanish Bay is an unforgettable way
to cap off yet another memorable golfing experience at
Pebble Beach Resorts.
The Links at Spanish Bay
Pebble Beach, California, USA
The Links at Spanish Bay, ‘The Piper Ceremony’